Delhi High Court Dismisses Plea to Revise CA Exams Schedule

In a recent development, the Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea seeking the revision of the Chartered Accountants (CA) exams scheduled for May 2024. The plea was filed by CA aspirants, urging the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) to postpone the exams. However, the court deemed the request lacking in merit and rejected it.

The court's decision came in response to concerns raised by CA aspirants regarding the clash of exam dates with the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May 2024. The petitioners argued that some students, particularly those living away from their hometowns, would face difficulties in exercising their voting rights if the exams were not rescheduled.

However, the Delhi High Court expressed surprise at the plea, stating, "For all the aforesaid reason, it is clear on the face of it that the petition is bereft of substance." The court emphasized that there were no conflicts between the CA exam dates and the voting schedule. It further advised students to manage their preparations effectively and find a balance between exam readiness and exercising their democratic right to vote.

The revised exam schedule released by the ICAI indicates that the CA intermediate group 1 exams will be conducted on May 3, 5, and 9, instead of May 7. Similarly, group 2 exams are scheduled for May 11, 15, and 17, instead of May 9, 11, and 13. The final exam group 1 will take place on May 2, 4, and 8, with group 2 exams on May 10, 14, and 16. Additionally, CA foundation exams are slated for June 20, 22, 24, and 26.

Despite the revised schedule, CA aspirants remain dissatisfied, citing concerns about the overlap with the Lok Sabha elections. They argue that students living away from home may find it challenging to travel back and cast their votes. This sentiment has garnered support from child activist Anubha Srivastava Sahai and other practicing CAs, who are advocating for the rights of aspirants in this matter.

While the court's decision may not have been in favor of rescheduling the exams, it underscores the importance of effective time management and prioritization for CA aspirants. As they gear up for the upcoming exams, students are urged to strike a balance between their academic commitments and their civic duties, ensuring that they are well-prepared for both